Chapter 1404

“Am I really losing to someone who isn’t even here anymore?”

Lowell replied, “If you want to win this, you must recover sooner. Staying here won’t help.”

Elyse returned home, quickly washed, and slipped under the covers, craving sleep. As she was drifting off, a notification illuminated her phone—a new friend request. Curious, she accepted it and typed, “Who’s this?”

The screen displayed a reply: “Victor Hayes.”

Elyse’s brow furrowed. She texted, “Why befriend me?”

Victor’s warm reply appeared: “Your grandma thought we should keep in touch, even if romance isn't on the cards. Maybe hang out sometime? When are you free?”

Elyse bit her lip, a nervous habit, and texted back, “I’m swamped with work.” She added, “Focus on your own life and ignore my grandma’s advice.”

She placed her phone beside her pillow and closed her eyes, feeling a strange mix of irritation and amusement. Her heart was still entangled in a past love—was it too soon to consider someone new?

Her thoughts were interrupted by her phone vibrating on the nightstand. Victor was calling. She answered, her voice surprised. “Hey, something up?”

“There’s a cocktail party tomorrow night. A friend of mine is hosting—a gathering of music lovers. Interested?” Victor’s voice was hopeful.

Elyse hesitated, then asked, “I play the violin—does your friend play, too?”

“Why should musical genres divide us? Imagine a violin weaving through guitar chords. It’s about harmony, right?” Victor’s reply was persuasive.

Elyse almost smiled but remembered her schedule. “I wish I could, but work’s got me tied up tomorrow.”

“Is it that hard to get you out?” Victor chuckled. “I’m not usually this forward. Help me out here?”

There was a pause, then Elyse sighed. “I’m really busy. But thanks for the invite.”